MQHA Member Spotlight: Christal Sivils
Name: Christal Sivils
Where are you from? I live in Bolivar, MO and am from Forsyth, MO
How long have you been showing horses? 25+ years
What is your favorite horse show? I really enjoyed going to Pinto World and seeing all the different types and disciplines of horses, from mini to draft.
Tell us about your family. I've been married for 13 years. My husband is a partner of an engineering firm that has offices all over MO. His hobby is dirt cars, like late models and modifieds. We are a busy couple with our own hobbies! No children, just fur babies (dogs and horses).
How did you get hooked on horses? My uncle and grandparents got me started riding and showing horses. Until 2013, all my show horses have been raised by my family.
What is it about horses that makes you want to work with them and compete? I love the bond you share with them.
What would you tell your younger self (in relation to showing)? Enjoy all the trips and memories made.
What horse(s) and event(s) are you currently showing? I have two mares, NoDoubt Shez WorthIt aka Bailey, that's shown in all around walk trot events. I just recently purchased a yearling double registered filly from KY, iReign aka Sugar. We just came back from competing at our first ABRA World Show and she placed top 5 in both of her classes. I’ve enjoyed getting to bond with Sugar with our training to prepare.
What are your goals? My goal for 2024 is to earn the MQHA All Around Walk Trot Amateur. Besides that, continue working with my yearling on the in-hand trail events and adding showmanship.
Who do you look up to in the industry? There really isn’t one certain person I look up to. I really just like to watch the warmup and show pens.
Do you have any superstitions when you show? Not really.
Who is your all-time favorite horse? And why? I don’t really have a particular favorite horse.
If you are not at a horse show, what would we find you doing? Usually if I’m not at a show, I’m at the racetrack supporting my husband.
Do you have another job…besides taking care of your horses? I do; I've been a nurse for 12 years! I own 724 Drip and Wellness Spa. This is completely a mobile business that offers IV hydration, B12 injections, weight loss, and will soon be offering botox injections. I always have my IV supplies and B12 with me at shows in case anyone needs a quick pick me up.
What is your favorite thing about MQHA? The participation of everyone from trainers to parents to youth at the shows.
What is your favorite hobby besides showing horses? Hmmmmm....honestly, I’m kind of a homebody. Probably curled up with my dogs watching a movie.
What is your favorite food? Noodles and Company’s – Buttered noodles
What is your favorite restaurant? Cheesecake Factory or Jimm’s Steakhouse in Springfield MO
What is your favorite movie? Any Adam Sandler movie, really enjoy comedies.
What is your favorite quote? “Live your life to the fullest each day.”
What is your dream vacation? The beach! I love the atmosphere and food!
What are you terrible at but love to do anyway? Not sure, maybe sing???
What is one thing on your bucket list? I’d like to go see the WEC in Ocala, FL. Maybe even go show down there!
Tell us something most people don’t know about you? I’m open about most things but I’m a dog lover and have 7 dogs! Usually at shows you see my border collie, Sophie with me, but there are several others at home!
One piece of advice you would like to share with exhibitors who are just getting started? Don’t let all the pressure get to you. Enjoy every moment and always ask for help.
